One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into something special. With its rich flavor, simple preparation, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, one-pan balsamic chicken will impress with its vibrant colors and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful Combination: The balance of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish you’ll crave.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the vegetables or proteins to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is ideal for leftovers, making it great for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make one-pan balsamic chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken and then transfer it directly to the oven for baking without needing additional pans.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for preparing your sauce and tossing together the tomato mozzarella mixture separately.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the sauce ingredients evenly for the best flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Use this to scrape up delicious browned bits from the skillet, adding depth to your sauce.

Ingredients

One-pan balsamic chicken is such a flavorful weeknight dinner. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps!

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

For the Chicken and Toppings

• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

1. In another bowl, toss together grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil.
2. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Once oil is shimmering, add chicken in a single layer.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake

1. Pour the balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken; it should simmer immediately.
2. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan’s bottom.
3. Remove from heat and spread the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

Step 6: Finish Cooking in Oven

Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be at least 165F).
Remove from oven; allow resting for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your one-pan balsamic chicken as an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile in its serving options. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, here are some delightful ways to serve this dish.

With Fresh Greens

• Simple Salad: A light mix of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad: Serve with a classic Caesar salad for a hearty contrast; the creamy dressing blends beautifully with the chicken’s balsamic glaze.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Herbed Rice: Fluff up some herbed rice to soak up the balsamic sauce—this adds texture and flavor.
• Quinoa Bowl: A warm quinoa bowl topped with the chicken and veggies offers a nutritious option that’s still filling.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread served on the side is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette pairs well with the dish, giving it an elegant touch while making it easy to enjoy every bite.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, follow these simple tips. They will help elevate your dish and ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Ahead: Marinating chicken in the balsamic mixture for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor depth.
• Use Even Thickness: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, preventing dryness.
• Sear for Flavor: Searing chicken before adding sauce creates a delicious caramelized layer that boosts flavor.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain juices, resulting in moist meat.
• Fresh Herbs Finish: Sprinkle additional fresh basil on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with One Pan Balsamic Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful meal perfectly.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring vibrant color and texture.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the acidity of balsamic.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being simple to prepare.
4. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed pasta with seasonal vegetables makes for a refreshing complement to the rich chicken dish.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with lemon juice and herbs offers brightness and absorbs flavors well.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs nicely with savory dishes like balsamic chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Use a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip this step for a more flavorful meal.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for a perfect golden crust.
• Not resting the chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can let juices escape, making it dry. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: A poor-quality vinegar can negatively impact the sauce’s flavor. Choose a good quality balsamic for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish made with chicken breasts cooked in a balsamic vinegar sauce, combined with tomatoes and mozzarella.

Can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap mozzarella for another cheese like feta.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its simplicity and rich flavors!

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One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into a culinary experience. This easy recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a rich balsamic vinegar sauce, paired with juicy grape tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. The one-pan preparation means minimal cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Perfect for busy families or those who crave a flavorful, satisfying dish without the fuss, this recipe brings vibrant colors and delicious taste to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, avocado oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, mix grape tomatoes with mozzarella balls and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Sear chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Pour balsamic sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with the tomato mixture.
7. Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg